Sudeep Bhandari

Sitaram Pokharel is a distinguished Nepali musician known for his contributions to modern and pop music. Born on October 4 in Simpani, Khotang, Nepal, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Arts with a focus on Economics. Despite his academic background, his passion for music led him to become one of Nepal’s most recognized artists. His musical journey began with The Tinos Group, a band formed in 1980. He released his first song, Sajaidiyeu, on Radio Nepal in 1985, marking the start of a prolific career. Over the years, he has composed and performed more than 40 songs and released 14 music videos, making a lasting impact on the Nepali music scene. Throughout his career, Sitaram Pokharel has released several acclaimed albums, including Prayas (1998), Khoji Herinau (2001), Binakaran (2005), Spark (2008), October 4 (2009), and Samman (2011). His songs and music videos have featured some of Nepal’s top models and actresses, such as Ruby Rana, Sumi Khadka, Nisha Adhikari, and Arunima Lamsal. His dedication to music has earned him numerous accolades, including the Nepal Freedom Press Union Award and the Annapurna Music Award (2066 B.S.). He has also held significant roles in musical organizations, serving as Vice President of Purwanchal Sangitik Kalakar Manch, Vice President of Simple Art, Baneshwor, and a Member of the Nepal Musical Association. Beyond music, Sitaram Pokharel is known for his love of traveling to collect songs, as well as his passion for football and table tennis. His favorite song is Ma Maunta Ma by Om Bikram Bista, and he greatly admires singers like Udit Narayan Jha and Sonu Nigam. Despite his love for music, he dislikes excessive talkativeness and smoking, especially in enclosed spaces. One of his most memorable experiences in his career was an all-night video shoot for Aankhako Nanima, reflecting his dedication to his craft. He expresses deep gratitude to his fans and the models who contributed to his music videos’ success. Sitaram Pokharel remains a respected and influential figure in the Nepali music industry, continuing to inspire new generations of artists and music enthusiasts alike.

Nischal Basnet is a celebrated Nepali director, actor, writer, and playback singer known for revolutionizing modern Nepali cinema. Born on January 17, 1980, in Birtamod, Jhapa, he studied film at Oscar International College. His directorial debut Loot (2012) became a cult hit, followed by acclaimed films like Talakjung vs Tulke (2014) and Loot 2 (2017). As an actor, he starred in Kabaddi Kabaddi, Dui Rupaiyan, and Prasad. Known for blending realism, dark humor, and social commentary, Basnet is married to actress Swastima Khadka. His work continues to shape the narrative and technical evolution of Nepali cinema.

Rimla Moktan is a beloved Nepali singer known for the sweetness and clarity of her voice, heard in memorable songs such as “Mirmire Bihan Surya Ko Darshan Tiger Hillai Ma,” “Phalelungma Hiu Paryo Danphe Jharyo Sirikhola,” and others. Born in Darjeeling, she studied at Nepali Kanya Higher Secondary School (Boarding School), where she later returned as a teacher. Her musical journey began remarkably early—at just five or six years old—when she started learning classical music under Guru Madhu Singh.Her formal artistic path took shape under the guidance of Chandan Lomjel, who provided her special training and introduced her to competitive performance. Under his mentorship, she participated in the Darjeeling Gorkha Dukha Nivarak Sammelan Music Competition around 1981, performing songs composed by Chandan Lomjel with lyrics by P. Arjun and Puran Giri. She also sang a duet with Lakpa Sherpa, winning awards in both duet and group categories, and securing first place in the Lok‑Adhunik category—a milestone that marked her full entry into the musical field.Rimla continued her classical training with Guru Chittaranjan Mishra, and after he returned to Odisha, she studied under renowned sitar maestro Tri Ratna Tuladhar, with whom she still consults whenever she seeks deeper musical refinement. Through Chandan Lomjel, she also met composer Manikamal Chhetri, who offered her the opportunity to sing in Pratap Subba’s musical drama “Mrigtishna,” where she performed classical raga‑based compositions.With her grounding in classical discipline, her Darjeeling musical heritage, and her naturally melodious voice, Rimla Moktan remains a respected and cherished figure in Nepali folk‑adhunik music.